Here’s a detailed overview of osteoarthritis (OA), a common joint condition:
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It’s the most common form of arthritis, especially in older adults.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Age: Risk increases as you get older.
- Joint injury or overuse: Sports injuries, repetitive movements, or trauma.
- Obesity: Extra weight stresses joints, especially knees and hips.
- Genetics: Family history can increase risk.
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop OA after age 50.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Joint pain: Worsens with activity, improves with rest.
- Stiffness: Especially after inactivity or in the morning (usually <30 min).
- Swelling or tenderness: Mild swelling or localized tenderness around joints.
- Reduced flexibility: Difficulty moving the joint fully.
- Grating sensation (crepitus): Popping or cracking when moving the joint.
- Bone spurs (osteophytes): Hard lumps around affected joints.
- Joint deformity: Advanced OA may cause visible changes in joint shape.
- Weakness or instability: Muscles around the joint may weaken.
Commonly Affected Joints
- Knees
- Hips
- Hands (especially fingers)
- Spine (neck and lower back)
Complications
- Reduced mobility and difficulty performing daily activities
- Chronic pain
- Increased risk of falls due to joint instability
Management
- Lifestyle: Weight loss, low-impact exercise, physical therapy.
- Medications: Pain relievers (acetaminophen), NSAIDs, topical creams.
- Supportive devices: Braces, orthotics, canes.
- Surgery: Joint replacement in severe cases.
If you want, I can make a simple table showing early vs late osteoarthritis signs so it’s easy to recognize progression.
Do you want me to do that?
